Book Now: THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC
Churnet Valley Railway Train Ride

Churnet Valley Railway

Nostalgic steam train rides, unique dining experiences and family adventures through the Staffordshire Moorlands, just a stone's throw from the outskirts of the Peak District.

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plan your day out

plan your day out

Make the most of your visit to our heritage railway—find everything you need to plan the perfect day out, from routes and station facilities to parking, accessibility, food and drink. Plus, discover nearby walks, attractions, and local tips to complete your Staffordshire adventure.

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see what's on

see what's on

Everything that’s steaming ahead in 2026—full timetable, dining trains and headline events like the Rail Ale Trail, summer Murder Mystery dinners, Borders Explorer and THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Christmas ride—all in one place and ready to book now.

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dining experiences

dining experiences

From hearty Midweek Lunches and traditional Sunday Roasts to relaxed Saturday dining, Murder Mystery dinners and the spice-filled Bombay Express—our heritage railway is the perfect setting for memorable meals. Add a bottle of Champagne to make your day even more special. Reserve your table today.

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Our Most Popular Dining Experiences

Breakfast Trains

Step aboard our heritage Breakfast Train—savour from our choice of breakfast options, enjoy limitless hot drinks, and celebrate the journey with optional Prosecco—all as The Staffordshire Moorlands countryside unfolds around you.

Price: £28.50 / person
Departure time: 10:30
Duration: ~2 hours
More info Check Running Times

Sunday Lunch Trains

Savour a delicious 3-course Sunday Roast aboard our heritage train—choose from tender beef, roast chicken, or a hearty vegetarian option, all served with traditional trimmings and impeccable service as you journey through the Staffordshire countryside.

Price: £64.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours
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Saturday Lunch Trains

Enjoy a 3-course Saturday Lunch with scenic countryside views—featuring favourites like Bangers & Mash, vegetarian options, and more. Drinks can be pre-ordered or purchased on the day and are served straight to your table.

Price: £64.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours
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Staffordshire Cream Tea

Enjoy our no-sandwich take on afternoon tea with savoury nibbles, oven-fresh scones, cakes, and unlimited hot drinks—all served aboard our heritage train as you roll through the Staffordshire Moorlands countryside.

Price: £38.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30
Duration: ~2 hours
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Upcoming Events

Winter magic for families

The Polar Express™

50% Tickets sold already

All-aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™—an hour of festive magic: hot chocolate show, steam ride to the North Pole, meet Santa, and relive the movie in your Christmas pyjamas.

Date: 7th Nov 2026 - 23rd Dec 2026
Price: from £29.95 / person
Duration: ~2 hours
More info Book Polar Express Train Ride Tickets
back in 2026

Murder Mystery

Become the sleuth aboard our Summer Mystery Steam Train—fine dining, vintage carriages, and two fresh 2026 whodunnits to crack. Interrogate suspects, hunt clues, and solve the case.

Price: £80.00 / person
Departure time: 18:30
Duration: ~2 hours
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A taste of the orient

Bombay Express

Hop aboard the Bombay Express for lunch or dinner—fragrant curries, authentic sides, and a charming heritage train setting, perfect for date nights or unforgettable group outings.

Price: £38.50 / person
Departure time: 13:30 ⁄ 18:30
Duration: ~2 hours
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Limited availability

Borders Explorer

Discover Churnet Valley Railway’s Borders Explorer—go behind the scenes, explore restoration work, and ride the newly reopened Leek and Leekbrook Triangle, with a rare sneak peek along the Stoke line. A must for rail fans and curious explorers.

Price: £69.99 / person
Departure time: 10:30
Duration: ~2 hours
More info Check Running Times
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Our Trains & Heritage

steam locomotives

The Churnet Valley Railway has a number of steam locomotives. Click to find out more.

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diesel locomotives

The Churnet Valley Railway has a number of diesel locomotives onsite. Click to find out more.

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coaching stock

A full list of the coaching stock currently located at the Churnet Valley Railway.

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our history

We’ve been serving passengers since 1847. Discover our journey through the past 177 years.

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Book for 2026: THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride

Churnet Valley Railway offers unique train rides, dining experiences, and seasonal events aboard our vintage restored steam trains. We help to preserve our rich heritage of steam-powered rail transport, provide access to villages only accessible by rail, and delight tens of thousands of happy passengers each year.

Located near the market town of Leek, this West Midlands attraction is within easy reach of Cheshire, Derbyshire, Manchester, and Birmingham for those looking for a journey into the past along some of the most beautiful tracks in the country.

Experience Churnet Valley Railway: Murder Mystery Train | Dining Experiences | Rail Ale Trail | Regular Schedule